OT: Roof framing, alteration Options

[thomasotten]

I have an existing roof on my house that is pitched and creates a cathedral type ceiling underneath. I am considering increasing the pitch of this roof, for ascthetic reasons mostly, but also to add insulation to the roof, which I don't thick is adequetly insulated. There is no attic space right now, so I cant' be sure of the insulation, although it gets hot in summer time. I want the final roof to be 12/12, and to do this, I would need to raise the ridge by about 2'. From the ridge, I would then run rafters down to the bottom of the roof fascia. Instead of raising each rafter up and causing a mess, I am considering building a structure over the exsiting roof, and then sheathing over. That way I don't disturb the ceiling. I was thinking of also doing this in phases, keeping the existing shingles on as a I go. What do you think?

[brer]

So its an open beam ceiling right? Very nice to live with inside but they are notoriously inefficient when it comes to heat and cold infiltration.

I would consider two options before you attack the structure, because once you cut into it you will be seriously opening your wallet.


1. Consider reroofing using an insulating "styrofoam" panel system under your roof sheathing. Its designed for use in roof systems that have no air space. Air space between your roof and ceiling acts as a buffer zone by the way, which is why homes in your area usually have nice attic spaces. Also consider switching to a very light colored roof...... like white. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) It will seem like Xmas all year but your heat performance will double.

Other factors that can help keep your structure cool are light exterior walls, good glazing with tint or Low E, and climbing vines on trellis panels on your south facing walls. A vine can decrease wall temps by 10 degrees.

2. If you have an already high ceiling build down into the space and install cosmetic beams to retain the effect and put your insulation above. Thats not as easy and proper appearance would be dependent on your plate height as well.


Raising the roof is good in dance clubs, but hell in reality. Prepare for planning hell as well. They will not want to approve it, which means you will NEED and engineer.



cheers,
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oh, i almost forgot. You could build a Parasol roof system to shade your existing structure.
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